Tag Archives: Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

Today Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants unveiled a $1 million redesign at Amara Resort & Spa in Sedona, Ariz., that includes a refresh of the boutique resort’s 100 guest rooms, common areas and a coming-soon restaurant, SaltRock, that will open in early September.

Amara’s new “modern native” esthetic infuses elements of Native American and Southwestern pattern and designs, but reinvented in a contemporary way. Craftsmanship and traditions of the Hopi and Navajo tribes that are indigenous to Northern Arizona, such as basket-making, rope-weaving, rain sticks and turquoise, can be found throughout. Pulling from the color palette of the surrounding lush foliage and the brilliant desert flowers that dot the property, green, aubergine, bright marigold and injections of hot fuchsia define the new interiors, which perfectly complement the red rock views that envelop the resort.

“The new look of Amara is contemporary, yet comfortable. It’s chic and sophisticated while also being a warm and welcoming place that encourages our guests to socialize and enjoy the beauty and local culture of Sedona,” said Patrick Gaskin, general manager of Amara Resort & Spa. “From the rich leather accents, Native American-inspired patterned rugs, natural live-edge wood tables, bright magenta statement chairs and a stunning, 10-foot-wide brass cowbell chandelier, the mix of simple and clean with pops of color and surprise really make our living room come alive.”

Common areas that underwent redesign include the living room where guests enjoy complimentary wine hour nightly, the full-service spa, the outdoor lounge and lawn areas and the 26,000-gallon infinity edge saltwater pool that overlooks the serene Oak Creek and red rocks.

“We designed our outdoor spaces as social environments that invite guests to relax in cheery Adirondack chairs on the lawn, cozy up on starry nights with plush blankets in front of the fire pits or lounge poolside in the new furniture while enjoying the view,” said Gaskin. “Resort and restaurant guests can also now enjoy a variety of games from 3pm-6pm nightly on the lawn including bocce ball and corn hole.”

Along with a new look, Amara’s full-service, award-winning spa has introduced a variety of treatments that embrace the natural and spiritual Sedona influences such as the Rain Dance Massage, using lavender, rosemary and sage oils that are dripped down the spine; Winds of Change Massage, where the chakras are realigned using the beat of Native rattles, smudging of sage and the healing powers of crystals in addition to massage techniques; and the Soleful Traveler Pedicure using hot stones and local Sedona mud to detox and relax weary feet.

Slated to open in early September, the resort’s dining destination, SaltRock, will offer Southwest-inspired cuisine marrying the fresh, light and seasonal approach to California cooking with culinary traditions and ingredients of the Southwest and Verde Valley. Drawing on inspiration from the Sonoran Desert and the vibrant city of Scottsdale, Executive Chef Massimo De Francesca is perfectly at home in this distinct environment. The cocktail program at SaltRock will highlight craft margaritas and was created by Kimpton Lead Bartender Jacques Bezuidenhout, who oversees the cocktails and spirits program for Kimpton’s nearly 70 restaurants, bars and lounges across the country. The bar will offer a thoughtful selection of tequila and mezcal, along with a curated selection of other spirits, local wines and craft, domestic and international beer favorites.

Guests of Amara enjoy complimentary morning coffee and tea service in the living room; hosted evening wine hour from 5pm – 6pm daily; a 24-hour fitness center; complimentary daily yoga; a heated, sea salt infinity pool and hot tub overlooking the red rocks and Oak Creek; free Wi-Fi for Kimpton Karma Rewards members; custom PUBLIC Bikes for complimentary use; pet-friendly amenities and accommodations and 5,000 square feet of multi-use space accommodating up to 160 people, which can be customized for social and business events.

A new restaurant, SaltRock, is opening this September when Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants unveils its signature dining destination at Amara Resort & Spa in Sedona, Ariz., now undergoing a property-wide redesign, where Chef Massimo De Francesca has just been appointed executive chef.

Chef Massimo is currently the executive chef at Taggia, located at Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, where he showcases coastal Italian cuisine, sourcing local Arizona organic produce, herbs from the on-site garden and top-quality meats and seafood flown in fresh daily. Classic in his training, yet innovative in his approach, Chef Massimo is known for connecting tradition with contemporary musings.

SaltRock will offer Southwest-inspired cuisine marrying the fresh, light and seasonal approach to California cooking with culinary traditions and ingredients of the Southwest and Verde Valley. Drawing on inspiration from the Sonoran Desert and the vibrant city of Scottsdale, Chef Massimo is perfectly at home in this distinct environment.

For Chef Massimo, standouts have already emerged from the menu including Deviled Eggs, chipotle-egg yolk mousse with pasilla maple syrup; King Oyster Mushrooms, confit, charred and marinated in local pine needles and served with warm Mexican chocolate and pinenut gremolata; Mini Bell Peppers, smoked with pecan wood and garnished with spicy aioli; Trout Pâté, local Sedona trout slow roasted over apple wood, made into a pâté and layered in a smoking jar served with toasted baguette; Lamb Tostadas, braised lamb belly, smoked goat cheese and apple-mint chutney and fresh epazote served over freshly made crispy tostadas; Wild So-Cal Swordfish, citrus grilled, layered with tomatillos, pineapple-puree and topped with mango and black bean salsa and Achiote Chicken, marinated organic chicken breast served over jalapeño and cilantro risotto, asparagus, garnished with piñon sauce and pomegranate seeds.

“It has been exciting to dive into the creation of the menu for SaltRock and blend Southwest-inspired flavor with the seasonal approach to California cooking, all while discovering ways to incorporate local, organic ingredients from Sedona and the Verde Valley into each dish,” said Chef Massimo. “I’m looking forward to becoming a part of the Sedona culinary scene and trust that our new restaurant will further enhance the city’s dining experiences.”

The cocktail program at SaltRock will highlight craft margaritas and was created by Kimpton Lead Bartender Jacques Bezuidenhout, who oversees the cocktails and spirits program for Kimpton’s nearly 70 restaurants, bars and lounges across the country. The bar will offer a thoughtful selection of tequila and mezcal, along with a curated selection of other spirits, local wines and craft, domestic and international beer favorites.

SaltRock’s design complements the resort’s new “modern native” design esthetic, which infuses elements of Native American patterns, but reinvented in a contemporary way. With charcoal-colored oak flooring, mix-and-match dining chairs, a live-edge wood communal dining table and banquets upholstered in vintage rugs, the restaurant embodies a timeless and comfortable American vibe and spirit. An art-installation of more than 300 antique spoons, found at flea markets across the country and artfully dipped in a variety of colors, adorn the wall. Lush, green air-plants in ceramic pots hang from ropes and leather straps to create a living wall that separates the restaurant from the resort’s living room to connect the spaces, while still allowing for privacy.

Born in Toronto, Chef Massimo’s international culinary passions have led him to positions in such places as Toronto, Canada; Torino and Cesenatico, Italy; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; Washington DC; Manhattan, New York and Dallas, Texas. In addition to his diverse experiences, he has worked under world renowned chefs such as Gianpiero Tondina, Vincenzo Cammeruci, Oscar Tuchi and JP Challet.

Chef Massimo joined Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in 2008 where he has served as executive chef at a variety of restaurants across the country over the years. He moved to Scottsdale to lead the culinary vision at Taggia in 2012, where he has earned numerous accolades including “Top 10 Best Italian Restaurants” by Phoenix Magazine. Kimpton is known for its award-winning collection of seasonally-inspired restaurants and bars lead by creative, local chefs that turn farm-fresh flavors into memorable dishes.

In August, Amara Resort & Spa is preparing to unveil a $1 million redesign of the boutique resort’s 100 spacious guest rooms and suites, common spaces including the living room where guests enjoy complimentary wine hour nightly, the outdoor lounge and the 26,000-gallon infinity edge saltwater pool that overlooks the serene Oak Creek and red rocks. As Kimpton’s newest addition to its Arizona properties, Amara is located in the heart of uptown Sedona. Nestled along Oak Creek, the resort overlooks the Cleopatra Red Rock Formation where Camel Rock and the much-loved Snoopy Rock are in perfect view.

While Amara is just steps from the hustle and bustle of Sedona’s uptown shopping, dining and cultural hub, the resort is situated below the main area, nestled on the banks of the creek, which makes it feel worlds away.

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants today announced that it has purchased Amara Resort and Spa, one of the leading resorts in Sedona, Ariz. The property was acquired through the company’s proprietary KHP-III fund, which closed in first quarter this year. The 100-room boutique resort overlooking Sedona’s beautiful Oak Creek, will be the third Kimpton hotel in Arizona and will join Kimpton’s portfolio of 59 hotels and 68 restaurants, bars and lounges in 25 cities nationwide.

Amara Resort and Spa is located in the heart of Uptown Sedona and is just a two-minute walk from Sedona’s popular shops, galleries, wine tasting and restaurants. As a luxurious boutique hotel immersed in Sedona’s iconic red rocks, Amara Resort and Spa combines the tranquility of Sedona with Kimpton’s hallmark customer care and stylish ambience, providing a top-rated Northern Arizona destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Kimpton has experienced strong growth in urban metropolitan areas across the nation for the last decade, and lately has come to focus on more opportunities in high leisure resort destinations.

“We’re proud to add the Amara Resort and Spa to our collection,” said Mike Depatie, chief executive officer, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. “We saw an opportunity to expand to Sedona, an area that’s a very desirable resort destination for travelers for its ideal weather, stunning views and serene environment. It’s a perfect addition to our growing roster of hotels because it further expands our presence in popular leisure markets adding to hotels we already have open or in development in Scottsdale, Vero Beach, South Beach, Miami, Aspen and Palm Springs.”

As one of the leading resorts in Sedona, Amara Resort and Spa completed a $2 million renovation in September 2012. The renovations included the addition of a 26,000-gallon infinity edge saltwater pool that directly overlooks the serene Oak Creek and Sedona’s red rocks, along with upgrades to the resort’s restaurant, outdoor event space, fitness center and lobby. Many of the resort’s 100 guest rooms also overlook Oak Creek and offer stunning red rock views.

Kimpton plans further renovations to align the property with its high standards in the area of design and comfort. The details and the timing of the renovations have not yet been announced. Amara Resort and Spa has already begun to incorporate and offer Kimpton’s popular complimentary perks and amenities, such as the Kimpton InTouch loyalty program, hosted evening wine hour from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., coffee and tea service in the living room lobby daily, in-room yoga mats, loaner bikes, the company’s pet friendly policies and more.

Amara Resort and Spa guests can also experience the beauty of Sedona at its popular restaurant Hundred Rox, with indoor/outdoor seating. Hundred Rox’s al fresco dining was recently updated with soothing water features and romantic fire pits – all overlooking the infinity pool and natural landscape. The outdoor area capitalizes on the stunning view and can also function as an outdoor event space for intimate weddings or corporate events.

Over the last decade, the Valley has added Jobing.com Arena, University of Phoenix Stadium, built new spring training facilities, upgraded old ones and visiting sports fans have responded by pumping billions of dollars annually into the economy. And when the Super Bowl returns to Arizona in 2015, the big winner will be the Valley, which will score an economic impact $600 million.

“If you take a look at the economic-impact studies that have been done for events such as spring training and the Fiesta Bowl and the Phoenix Open, the numbers are impressive,” says Steve Moore, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau. “For example, the last time the Super Bowl was here, in 2008, if you added its economic impact to that of annual events like Cactus League, the Phoenix Open, the Fiesta Bowl, and the NASCAR events at PIR, you’re looking at a number approaching $2 billion.”

“The enormous media value of hosting Super Bowls, college bowl games, NASCAR events, and NBA and (Majore League Baseball) all-star games simply cannot be purchased,” Moore says. “These big-time events also bring in corporate executives who use the games to entertain clients, and those executives and clients often return to town with their own corporate meetings.”

Arizona tourism leaders have utilized and marketed some its the state’s best features — sunny weather that guarantees no delays, desert scenery, excellent facilities and hotels — to become a major player in the world of sports. And the impact on the industry is staggering.

“Huge and immeasurable,” says Jesse Thompson, director of sales and marketing for Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale. “Every traveling team spends a night in town. Every team has loyal followers who travel to see their teams. And more than just the team travel, you have sportscasters, television crews, medical teams, referees, and not to mention the hundreds of employees at these venues that service everything from security to bathroom cleaning. Also, all the ancillary travel revenues from cabs and taxis, airlines and airports, food and beverage, entertainment, and retail are huge considerations.”

Consider this:

> Cactus League baseball will have an economic impact in excess of $350 million this year; the average stay for fans will be four days; and most will spend $350 a day while they are here. “Spring training typically offers the biggest sporting-related economic boost we see every year,” says Ron Simon, general manager of Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort.
> The 2012 Waste Management Phoenix Open pumped $222 million into Arizona’s economy — with direct sales tax revenue estimated to be $8.2 million — and non-local attendees spent an average of $300 per day.
> When the Super Bowl rolls back into town, 85 percent of the 73,000 fans at the game will be from out of state; 65 percent of them will be key company decision-makers; another 50,000 fans will visit without tickets; and the average Super Bowl visitor will spend $2,000 while they are here.
> Glendale alone draws between 4 million and 5 million people annually to sporting events that take place in Glendale’s Sports and Entertainment District, which contribute to the city’s increased hotel occupancy and sales tax collection throughout the year.

“The Fiesta Bowl and spring training are tremendous economic engines for Glendale and the West Valley,” says Lorraine Pino, manager of the Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Both of these events bring hundreds of thousands of fans to the region. The hotel occupancy rate also reaches near capacity during spring training.”

But it’s not just high-profile athletes that drive sports tourism in Arizona. Beyond being known as a mecca for golfers, the Valley hosts high-profile events for amateur athletes that translate to big bucks for the tourism industry.

Events like Ironman Arizona and the P.F. Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon are huge economic drivers because they bring not only the athletes, but their families and friends out for support which drives room nights and retail dollars for the entire community,” says Tori McLaughlin, regional director of sales and marketing, West Coast for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, which includes both Hotel Palomar and FireSky Resort & Spa.

But beyond the beautiful golf courses, hiking trails and weather, Arizona has built its sports tourism empire by creating its own “Field of Dreams” story and epitomizing the “If you build it, they will come” strategy.

“There has been a major investment in the construction of spring training stadiums, including the development of new stadiums and enhancements to existing ones,” Simon says. “We’ve also seen great development and growth of the entertainment and shopping areas surrounding Chase Field in downtown Phoenix and Jobing.com Arena and University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.”

With improving infrastructure and venues, Phoenix is extremely well positioned to successfully bid for even more mega sporting events in the future, experts predict.

“Arizona’s success has created destination envy, particularly in Texas, which actually enjoys an advantage over us because they have legislation in place that allows them to provide hosting-obligation funds based on incremental visitor spending at these events,” Moore says. “In fact, both Houston and Dallas were chosen over the Valley during the last bids for the NCAA Final Four. But we’ve become a better competitor due to the metamorphosis of downtown Phoenix. We stressed this in our most recent Super Bowl bid. The fully expanded convention center, the 1,000-room Sheraton, light rail, CityScape, the new Westin and Hotel Palomar — none of these things were around in ’08, when the Super Bowl was last in Arizona. The NBA and MLB got a taste of the new downtown when they held their All-Star festivities here, and the NFL will get an even bigger taste in 2015.”

Sometimes ladies’ night needs to be expanded to an entire weekend. Why? Because your girlfriends are the perfect companions to help you relax and have fun. To take it one step further, how about turning ladies’ night into a weekend vacation?

The “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” package at Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa takes the headache out of having to plan your girls’ getaway because the attractions are either on-site or nearby.

The package includes welcome cosmopolitan cocktails at Taggia’s bar, a 25-percent discount at Jurlique Spa, certificates for shopping discounts at Scottsdale Fashion Square and two eye masks to wrap up the weekend.

Located in the heart of Scottsdale, FireSky Resort & Spa has everything a girl could need, including spacious rooms equipped with a private patio or balcony; a lagoon and pool with a sand beach; Taggia’s restaurant, which serves authentic coastal Italian cuisine; and the award-winning Jurlique Spa, which uses certified organic and biodynamic herbs and ingredients to help you relax and refresh.

As most of you know, Scottsdale is an active town with high-end shopping, art galleries, museums, dining and nightlife. For example, downtown Scottsdale is home to more than 80 wine bars, lounges and clubs; and with more than 250 shops, Scottsdale Fashion Square is the largest shopping mall in the southwest.

Now if you’re thinking, “this sounds great, but it’s probably expensive,” think again. Rates start from $124 through September 30 and $224 October through May. It can be booked on FireSky Resort & Spa’s website by entering the rate code “PGRL” or by calling 1-800-528-7867 and mentioning the package by name.

For more information about the “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” package and Kimpton’s FireSky Resort & Spa, visit fireskyresort.com.